ABC News host David Muir has once again given fans a rare glimpse into his private life. Sharing a collection of photos taken by his late uncle, Doug Muir, a renowned photographer, Muir revealed a captivating encounter between his uncle and legendary rocker Mick Jagger. The photos were taken in July 1966, when the Rolling Stones visited the War Memorial in Syracuse, New York. The incident, famously known as ‘the flag incident,’ involved the questioning of Jagger by the police regarding an American flag allegedly mishandled by one of the band members. David Muir’s uncle, always armed with his camera, managed to quietly capture these iconic photographs.
A Captivating Moment Frozen in Time
Muir’s collection of photographs is now part of the exhibit ‘Doug Muir: Coming Home’ at the Everson Museum of Art until September 3. The images depict a young Jagger and provide a captivating insight into the past. Fans of Muir and the Rolling Stones admired his late uncle’s ability to capture the moment, leaving comments expressing their appreciation for the historical significance of the photos.
‘The Flag Incident’ and Its Local Legend
The incident involving the Rolling Stones and the American flag became a local legend in Syracuse and gained international attention when it first occurred in 1966. Suspicion surrounded the English band due to their unusual desire to purchase an American flag souvenir during their previous visit to the Syracuse War Memorial. On July 6, 1966, as rain poured down on the venue, the American flag, fondly nicknamed ‘Old Glory,’ was accidentally left outside and subsequently taken to the basement of the arena.
During this time, members of the Rolling Stones discovered the flag, and guitarist Brian Jones reportedly grabbed it, dragging it behind him and mishandling it. While their concert proceeded without any issues, the incident did not go unnoticed by some employees backstage, who reported it to the local police. Following the show, the police arrived at the band’s dressing room, leading to a heated exchange between the band members and the authorities.
An Apology and a Resolution
Brian Jones quickly expressed remorse for his actions, issuing an apology and emphasizing that he meant no harm. Mick Jagger, however, was more offended by the matter. Eventually, the case was dropped, but it would be 15 years before the Rolling Stones returned to Syracuse. Nonetheless, the band has since performed in the city multiple times in the late ’80s and ’90s.
The photographs captured by David Muir’s late uncle, Doug Muir, provide a unique glimpse into an iconic moment in music history. These images not only immortalize the ‘flag incident’ but also serve as a testament to the alluring power of photography. Through a single click of a camera, moments frozen in time can evoke emotions, ignite memories, and offer invaluable insights into the past. Muir’s decision to share these historic photographs allows fans and enthusiasts to appreciate the significance of this event and showcases his uncle’s remarkable ability to capture the essence of a moment. As the photos continue to be displayed in the Everson Museum of Art, the story behind ‘the flag incident’ lives on.